While the vast majority of Linux users are hard-core techies, some may be using Linux because they want to try something new, are interested in the technology, or simply cannot afford or do not want to use Microsoft Windows.

After becoming acquainted with the new interface of Linux, whether KDE, Gnome, or another window manager, users may begin to explore their system. Many machines come with default installations of Apache and Samba, and a few others even include a FTP daemon.